Stuffing – the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a traditionalist who swears by old-fashioned bread-based recipes or an adventurous soul looking to mix things up with new flavors, there’s no denying that a warm, savory loaf straight from the oven is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
But let’s be real: not all stuffing recipes are created equal. Some can be dry and flavorless, while others can overpower the delicate balance of your holiday meal. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering stove top stuffing recipes that will take your meal to the next level without breaking a sweat. From classic herb combinations to bold flavors like sausage and apple or caramelized onion and sage, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these delicious recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation tips that will make them shine. So whether you’re a seasoned stuffing pro or just looking for some inspiration, grab a cup of coffee (or your beverage of choice), get cozy, and let’s dig in!
Classic Herb Stove Top Stuffing
A timeless favorite, this recipe yields a deliciously flavorful stuffing that’s perfect for any occasion. With its blend of aromatic herbs and crispy texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stovetop to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the bread cubes, melted butter, dried sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the bread is toasted and crispy.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Sausage and Apple Stove Top Stuffing
This hearty stuffing combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for a comforting side dish or even as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium-sized apples, diced
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add apples, onion, garlic, and butter to the skillet; cook until apples are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine bread cubes and cooked sausage mixture.
5. Season with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Stove Top Stuffing
A savory and aromatic twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and garlic with the richness of butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stovetop to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the bread cubes until well coated with the mushroom mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and fragrant.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Stove Top Stuffing
This sweet and savory stuffing combines the natural tartness of cranberries with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a unique and mouthwatering side dish for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stovetop to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add bread cubes and cook until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped pecans, cranberries, chicken broth, honey, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and stuffing is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Stove Top Stuffing
Transform your holiday meal with this savory and satisfying stuffing recipe that combines the richness of bacon and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a stress-free side dish, this stove-top version is quick to prepare and cooks in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the stove to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bread cubes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rosemary Parmesan Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and savory stuffing recipe, infused with the piney flavor of rosemary and the nutty taste of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add bread cubes and cook until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in rosemary leaves, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot alongside your favorite roasted meats or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Sage Stove Top Stuffing
This savory stuffing combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for accompanying your holiday feast. This stove top recipe is quick and easy to make, and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Stir in chopped sage and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a separate bowl, combine bread cubes and chicken broth. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
4. Add cooked onion mixture to bread mixture and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook stuffing over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this bold and flavorful stuffing recipe that combines the warmth of cornbread with the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their sides!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in crumbled cornbread, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, and cumin. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until mixture is lightly toasted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sweet and savory stuffing recipe. Made with maple syrup, dijon mustard, and crispy chicken, it’s a flavorful twist on traditional bread-based stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup white bread, cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
3. Add the maple syrup, dijon mustard, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the bread cubes to the skillet and stir until they’re evenly coated with the maple-dijon mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the stuffing is heated through and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wild Rice and Cranberry Stove Top Stuffing
This hearty stuffing combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of dried cranberries, perfect for a cozy holiday gathering. This stove-top recipe is quick, easy, and yields a deliciously savory side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the wild rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the stuffing is heated through.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this flavorful stove-top stuffing, infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the bread cubes to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the tomato-basil mixture.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the bread is toasted and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Walnut Stove Top Stuffing
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of walnuts for a deliciously unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stovetop to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add bread cubes, diced apple, and chopped walnuts to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and apples are tender.
5. Season with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stove Top Stuffing
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the savory goodness of feta cheese with the nutrients-packed spinach for a delicious side dish. Perfect for the holiday season or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Add the breadcrumb mixture to the skillet with the spinach and stir until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Stove Top Stuffing
This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comfort of traditional stuffing, perfect for your holiday table. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, this dish is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf (14 oz) whole wheat bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine bread, melted butter, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently.
3. Add the chicken broth and stir until absorbed by the bread.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Stove Top Stuffing
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts Stove Top Stuffing: Elevate your stuffing game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze and Dijon mustard.
6. Pour the glaze over the Brussels sprouts and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Gouda and Bacon Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your holiday gathering with this savory stuffing recipe that combines the richness of smoky gouda cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your stovetop to medium heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add crumbled bacon and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in shredded Smoked Gouda cheese until melted.
6. Add bread cubes, garlic, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until bread is toasted and mixture is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Turkey Stove Top Stuffing
Brighten up your holiday table with this flavorful and easy-to-make stuffing, infused with the warmth of turkey and the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup grated lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the bread in melted butter until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add parsley, sage, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
5. Stuff the mixture into a turkey cavity or bake in a separate dish at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chestnut and Thyme Stove Top Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic stuffing recipe that combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the earthy flavor of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups stale bread, cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped chestnuts, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add the bread cubes and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 savory stove top stuffing recipes! From classic herb to bacon and cheddar, and even pumpkin spice, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner. With ingredients like sausage, apples, mushrooms, cranberries, and more, you’ll find the perfect combination to suit your taste buds. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make this year’s meals truly unforgettable!
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